Warning against Self-Praise and Presumption.
WISDOM AND HUMILITY GO HAND IN HAND. — V. 17. Iron sharpeneth iron, namely, when a file is used; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend, namely, by the stimulation of his conversation and the encouragement of his example.
V. 18. Whoso keepeth the fig-tree, giving it the care which it needs, shall eat the fruit thereof, thus finding his labor rewarded; so he that waiteth on his master, having the proper regard for him, cultivating the spirit of loyal service in his employ, shall be honored, his faithfulness being properly rewarded.
V. 19. As in water face answereth to face, the surface of the water acting as a mirror which reflects all objects, so the heart of man to man, being mirrored in that of his fellow, a true knowledge of men being gained best by a thorough study of self.